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Remnants of Zone Four #1
Testing Zero
Fans of series like The Maze Runner, The Hunger Games, and Divergent will love N.G. Simsion.
Zero prefers to keep his life simple. Although he is easily one of the largest and cleverest boys in his year, he runs from any sign of confrontation. His best friend—his only friend—is nothing like him. Obsessed with the world outside of the city walls, Lefty is always pushing the boundaries set by society's Elite. It’s only a matter of time before they have gone too far and they’re forced to face the horrors of the "old world" on their own. Can they survive and learn to coexist with the dangerous Remnants of the old world? Are the Remnants of the old world even the worst of their problems, or do the Elite of their own society pose an even greater threat?
Zero prefers to keep his life simple. Although he is easily one of the largest and cleverest boys in his year, he runs from any sign of confrontation. His best friend—his only friend—is nothing like him. Obsessed with the world outside of the city walls, Lefty is always pushing the boundaries set by society's Elite. It’s only a matter of time before they have gone too far and they’re forced to face the horrors of the "old world" on their own. Can they survive and learn to coexist with the dangerous Remnants of the old world? Are the Remnants of the old world even the worst of their problems, or do the Elite of their own society pose an even greater threat?
105 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 14, 2016
233 people are currently reading
272 people want to read
About the author
N.G. Simsion
11 books12 followersRomance writer and young adult dystopian writer N.G. Simsion a.k.a. James Roth lives in Meridian, Idaho with his wife and two kids.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
June 15, 2016
Reminiscent of particular themes in James Dashner's "Maze Runner" series and Veronica Roth's "Divergent" series, the characters in N.G. Simsion's "Remnants of Zone Four Chronicles" are very well written with Zero and Lefty being complete opposites, yet complimenting to each others' strengths and weaknesses. This first book was easy to read and move through quickly with excitement on each page, with very little predictability. When the first book ends, you'll want to grab the second one to see what happens next!
July 29, 2018
Good read
Story was over too soon the apocalyptic books were getting to be routine, this is different, and I look forward to more.
Story was over too soon the apocalyptic books were getting to be routine, this is different, and I look forward to more.
September 28, 2016
Great dystopian novel
I loved the characters in this book, especially the bond between Lefty and Zero. Lefty is the real hero in this book, but it is told through Zero's point of view. I craved a bit more action from the boys at first but wasn't left disappointed, especially with Lefty's curious fascination with crocodiles. Can't wait for the next book!
I loved the characters in this book, especially the bond between Lefty and Zero. Lefty is the real hero in this book, but it is told through Zero's point of view. I craved a bit more action from the boys at first but wasn't left disappointed, especially with Lefty's curious fascination with crocodiles. Can't wait for the next book!
July 28, 2016
Testing zero a 100
Wow what a book you can't wait to read the next chapter. The characters are so alive and you want to clobber them or help them. It has bravery ,kindness ,meanness ,strength ,and ,weakness , all I in on great story. Buy it every word is worth the buy lst
Wow what a book you can't wait to read the next chapter. The characters are so alive and you want to clobber them or help them. It has bravery ,kindness ,meanness ,strength ,and ,weakness , all I in on great story. Buy it every word is worth the buy lst
September 23, 2016
Awesome
I loved this book. I'm really into dystopian-society books, and this is one of the best. I know what I'm talking about too, seeing as how I've read almost every single one!!!!
I loved this book. I'm really into dystopian-society books, and this is one of the best. I know what I'm talking about too, seeing as how I've read almost every single one!!!!
January 8, 2022
Actually surprised me how good the book was. It was a bit slower starting than I would have liked. I also wouldn't consider this a zombie book.
April 13, 2019
I enjoyed this book. It was unique. Mysterious background and fun characters.
In a world after disaster, the people called Remnants run loose in the world, feral, vicious and deadly, while the normal people are the remnants of a world that has been reduced to communal schools and cities surrounded by fences and crocodiles that keep the Remnants away. The boys compete for jobs that have meaning, and those who fail are tossed to the Remnants and the wild animals. I loved Lefty, who was willing to take on the world to find meaning in his life, while his best friend Zero dreams of becoming one of the exceptional Elite. Mostly the two boys have been together all their lives, they’re terrified they’re going to be separated, and their future as adults looks grim. The action was great, the story interesting. I’m not a Zombie story fan, the reason for the 4 stars, and the story left me with too many questions. The reason I should read book 2? You bet. Where are the girls? Why are the kids raised in communal child care? Just a few too many questions that left the story a little unsatisfying for me but not enough to keep me from liking it.
In a world after disaster, the people called Remnants run loose in the world, feral, vicious and deadly, while the normal people are the remnants of a world that has been reduced to communal schools and cities surrounded by fences and crocodiles that keep the Remnants away. The boys compete for jobs that have meaning, and those who fail are tossed to the Remnants and the wild animals. I loved Lefty, who was willing to take on the world to find meaning in his life, while his best friend Zero dreams of becoming one of the exceptional Elite. Mostly the two boys have been together all their lives, they’re terrified they’re going to be separated, and their future as adults looks grim. The action was great, the story interesting. I’m not a Zombie story fan, the reason for the 4 stars, and the story left me with too many questions. The reason I should read book 2? You bet. Where are the girls? Why are the kids raised in communal child care? Just a few too many questions that left the story a little unsatisfying for me but not enough to keep me from liking it.
June 18, 2018
Surprisingly captivating
Amazon recommended me this from some freebies and it sat unread for awhile; I don't read as much as I used to and many freebies on here have insufficient editing and often nonsensical phrases trying to sound clever or weird extras thrown in that do nothing to serve the story but just seem like something the author felt like sharing for some reason.
Anyhow I'm happy to report this book has none of those problems. It was easy to get into, the characters are colorful and likeable/hateable, the story moved along and left me wanting to read more.
Amazon recommended me this from some freebies and it sat unread for awhile; I don't read as much as I used to and many freebies on here have insufficient editing and often nonsensical phrases trying to sound clever or weird extras thrown in that do nothing to serve the story but just seem like something the author felt like sharing for some reason.
Anyhow I'm happy to report this book has none of those problems. It was easy to get into, the characters are colorful and likeable/hateable, the story moved along and left me wanting to read more.
November 10, 2019
Wow! What a ride! This book took me for a few surprises. I didn't read the synopsis before I started to read it. I just liked the cover. The main characters Zero and Lefty are amazing. They each face their own battles yet in the society they live, they become friends. They make a pact to pass the TEST so they can live in the same city together once it's over. However, things go wrong, and tempers flare..... and soon they find themselves outside the safety of the walls. This is a great post apocalyptic story!
March 4, 2024
Outstanding attention getter first book
I started this book on a whim after reading the brief overview of the book before purchasing it. I couldn't get that overview out of my mind and I had to start reading it even though I already had a couple other books started. The storyline grabbed my attention and just wouldn't let go until I started the actual book, then I couldn't put it down until I'd finished it, which I just did. Now I have to get the second book so I can find out what happens to Zero, Lefty and their tormenter Flea.
I started this book on a whim after reading the brief overview of the book before purchasing it. I couldn't get that overview out of my mind and I had to start reading it even though I already had a couple other books started. The storyline grabbed my attention and just wouldn't let go until I started the actual book, then I couldn't put it down until I'd finished it, which I just did. Now I have to get the second book so I can find out what happens to Zero, Lefty and their tormenter Flea.
December 4, 2017
I have a couple confessions
The voice almost seemed too young for eighteen year old boys.
I was curious about the lack of female characters in this book, although I expect the rest of the series would cover that.
I also found it interesting that all the "remnants" are dark-skinned.
I may continue the series, but I have a big To Be Read pile I'd like to knock out before I buy anything new.
I will update this rating/review if the next book gives me some answers.
The voice almost seemed too young for eighteen year old boys.
I was curious about the lack of female characters in this book, although I expect the rest of the series would cover that.
I also found it interesting that all the "remnants" are dark-skinned.
I may continue the series, but I have a big To Be Read pile I'd like to knock out before I buy anything new.
I will update this rating/review if the next book gives me some answers.
June 12, 2018
Testing Zero is the first book in the Remnants of Zone Four Chronicles series. This should not be read as a standalone as it is clear from the ending that the story continues. The two main characters, Zero and Lefty, are polar opposites but have been friends for years. This book is interesting and worth reading. It won't take long as it is fairly short. I am interested to see what happens to these guys next.
December 22, 2016
I loved a lot about this book. It had great characters and was unpredictable. But while there was a lot of action and conflict it felt like it didn't mean anything. No progression. And the writing lacked detail and moved so quickly felt like I was reading a synopsis of the novel. This would probably be great for 10-yr-old boys who aren't looking for a cerebral plot.
October 31, 2017
Very unique dysopian future
I was surprised how much I enjoyed this book. Many things about the man character I didn't like at first but he overcame his downfalls when it really mattered. Brilliant scene writing allowed me to imagine all the details of how the cities are. Many questions left unanswered spurring me to want to read the next three.
I was surprised how much I enjoyed this book. Many things about the man character I didn't like at first but he overcame his downfalls when it really mattered. Brilliant scene writing allowed me to imagine all the details of how the cities are. Many questions left unanswered spurring me to want to read the next three.
April 12, 2018
An intriguing look into a possible future.
This book had me feeling a variety of emotions. The main characters had simular trials as present day teens with just a little twist. It left me wanting to get to know these boys better. Where did they come from, where do they go from here? Can't wait for the next book.
This book had me feeling a variety of emotions. The main characters had simular trials as present day teens with just a little twist. It left me wanting to get to know these boys better. Where did they come from, where do they go from here? Can't wait for the next book.
July 22, 2018
Pleasantly surprised
I thought this story was well written. When I started it, I wasn't expecting to enjoy it but I did. The characters are flawed and funny, well developed and have heart. There isn't a lot of action but the story still had energy. I consider the time spent reading it to be well spent. I am excited to read the next book in the series.
I thought this story was well written. When I started it, I wasn't expecting to enjoy it but I did. The characters are flawed and funny, well developed and have heart. There isn't a lot of action but the story still had energy. I consider the time spent reading it to be well spent. I am excited to read the next book in the series.
August 23, 2018
Fast read. Constant action. Suspenseful to the end. Great study of personalities of three characters of various strengths.
Fast read. Constant action. Suspenseful to the end. Great study of personalities of three characters of various strengths. Would recommend to anyone who loves futuristic science fiction.
Fast read. Constant action. Suspenseful to the end. Great study of personalities of three characters of various strengths. Would recommend to anyone who loves futuristic science fiction.
August 24, 2018
Not long enough lol!!
Wasn’t sure what I’d think of this from the write up, but am glad I got it! I want to know more about this ‘future world’, how it happened and what the future holds for Zero, Lefty and Flea. Was so engrossed, it came as quite a shock to realise it was finished!
Wasn’t sure what I’d think of this from the write up, but am glad I got it! I want to know more about this ‘future world’, how it happened and what the future holds for Zero, Lefty and Flea. Was so engrossed, it came as quite a shock to realise it was finished!
October 25, 2018
Excellent read!
I love that it depicts society well after it starts to rebuild from infection. Not a classic zombie story but suspenseful and still offering real threats to life after apocalyptic events. Kept me reading from the start and can't wait to read the next book in the series!
I love that it depicts society well after it starts to rebuild from infection. Not a classic zombie story but suspenseful and still offering real threats to life after apocalyptic events. Kept me reading from the start and can't wait to read the next book in the series!
May 28, 2023
Great read
Of you like action, fast-paced stories, this is the book for you. In a world that is full of the unknown, there was still kindness and friendship. In this story, everything leads up to the testing to determine what you will do with the rest of your life and where you will live.
Of you like action, fast-paced stories, this is the book for you. In a world that is full of the unknown, there was still kindness and friendship. In this story, everything leads up to the testing to determine what you will do with the rest of your life and where you will live.
June 11, 2017
Interesting storyline!
I chose this rating because there were little to no errors and it was well written. I found the story believable. The characters are fun and vibrant. The heroine has had quite a journey so far!
I chose this rating because there were little to no errors and it was well written. I found the story believable. The characters are fun and vibrant. The heroine has had quite a journey so far!
June 15, 2017
Cool!
This story was like no other that I have read before. It was very exciting and fun to read. I really enjoyed the two main characters especially Lefty. I can't wait to get book 2.
This story was like no other that I have read before. It was very exciting and fun to read. I really enjoyed the two main characters especially Lefty. I can't wait to get book 2.
December 6, 2017
Interesting post end of world read
Easy read with a compelling mystery behind the adventures of two teens coming of age. Recommend this book for any science fiction fan or end of the world sagas.
Easy read with a compelling mystery behind the adventures of two teens coming of age. Recommend this book for any science fiction fan or end of the world sagas.
January 31, 2018
Good read
This book was a little different from the many dystopian post-apocalyptic books I have read. Kept thinking where is this book going and kept reading along. Well I finished it and now I need to keep going to the 2nd book. Need to see what happened☺
This book was a little different from the many dystopian post-apocalyptic books I have read. Kept thinking where is this book going and kept reading along. Well I finished it and now I need to keep going to the 2nd book. Need to see what happened☺
June 19, 2018
Zero a blistering read
From start to end the reader is involved in the lives of Lefty and his friend Zero. The type of life the youths live us wonderfully engrossing. The best way to enjoy this tale is to read this series as soon as possible..
From start to end the reader is involved in the lives of Lefty and his friend Zero. The type of life the youths live us wonderfully engrossing. The best way to enjoy this tale is to read this series as soon as possible..
November 11, 2018
I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading. Kept my attention. A good story line, different than other apocalyptic books I have read.
I enjoyed reading this first book in series. Kept my attention. A good story line, different than other apocalyptic books I have read.
I enjoyed reading this first book in series. Kept my attention. A good story line, different than other apocalyptic books I have read.
December 28, 2018
If you like fast paced action, this is the book for you
The writing is exceptional, this story catches you right away. Likable characters in unique situations. Absolutely going to be reading the next in this series.
The writing is exceptional, this story catches you right away. Likable characters in unique situations. Absolutely going to be reading the next in this series.
April 24, 2019
Zero complaints!
What an original and excitement filled book! I loved the characters and the twists and turns that kept me guessing til the very end. Looking forward to the next one!
What an original and excitement filled book! I loved the characters and the twists and turns that kept me guessing til the very end. Looking forward to the next one!
May 3, 2019
Rose
Great book! How can a boy befriend an extremely large and ferocious beast? While reading this book I found out! This book is impossible to put down once started. I couldn't wait to see what happened as I turned each page. I look forward to reading what happens next.
Great book! How can a boy befriend an extremely large and ferocious beast? While reading this book I found out! This book is impossible to put down once started. I couldn't wait to see what happened as I turned each page. I look forward to reading what happens next.
September 26, 2022
Interesting
Interesting book. The main characters are not what you expect for a less role. I like that it makes the book more unexpected. Quick, by good read. I'm looking forward to the next book.
Interesting book. The main characters are not what you expect for a less role. I like that it makes the book more unexpected. Quick, by good read. I'm looking forward to the next book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews